Purpose of the Role
As NPD Manager, you will lead the end‑to‑end innovation and product development agenda, driving both new product launches and improvements to the existing range.
Working cross‑functionally, you’ll bring ideas to life—collaborating closely with marketing, category, and culinary teams to build an exciting pipeline of products that excite customers and consumers alike.
This is a hands‑on, high‑impact role. You’ll take ownership from early concept through to factory scale‑up and commercial launch, ensuring every product meets the highest standards of quality, cost efficiency, and feasibility.
Key Responsibilities
Project Leadership
* Lead projects through a structured Stage & Gate process from concept to launch
* Manage timelines, risks, and deliverables to ensure projects land on time and in full
* Own and maintain project documentation and reporting for senior stakeholders
* Facilitate cross‑functional collaboration to resolve challenges quickly
Product Development
* Translate insights into commercially viable, consumer‑led product concepts
* Partner with culinary teams to refine product briefs, recipes, and costings
* Oversee trials, approvals, and scale‑up into manufacturing
* Ensure products deliver on taste, quality, and operational efficiency
Innovation Pipeline
* Build and maintain a rolling 3‑year innovation pipeline aligned to business goals
* Lead product renovation initiatives to keep the range competitive and relevant
* Identify opportunities for both branded and customer‑led development
Factory & Launch Delivery
* Manage the transition from kitchen concept to factory production
* Support trials and first production runs, ensuring smooth execution
* Work closely with technical, supply chain, and procurement teams
* Oversee successful handover to production post‑launch
Commercial & Technical Alignment
* Track and communicate the financial impact of development decisions
* Ensure accurate documentation for specifications and pack copy
* Drive post‑launch reviews to capture learnings and optimise performance
Team Development
* Lead and develop a direct report, supporting growth and capability
* Build development plans and share knowledge across the wider business
* Champion market awareness through trend insights and competitor benchmarking
What We’re Looking For
* Proven experience in food manufacturing and product scale‑up
* A strong track record of delivering end‑to‑end NPD projects
* Commercially aware with the ability to turn insight into action
* Confident communicator who thrives in cross‑functional environments
* Highly organised, adaptable, and comfortable in a fast‑paced setting
* Hands‑on knowledge of ingredients, processes, and food labelling
* A proactive mindset with a strong sense of ownership
* Passion for food and continuous improvement
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